Head of Policy

About the Role

The Ministry of Community Empowerment is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Policy to lead the development, review and implementation of policies and regulatory frameworks that support the Ministry's strategic objectives and enhance its impact on the community.

Based within the Strategy and Future Department, the role will provide strategic policy direction, oversee policy research and analysis, and ensure alignment with government priorities, national strategies and emerging community needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, review and enhancement of policies, strategies and regulatory frameworks aligned with the Ministry's mandate and strategic priorities.
• Oversee policy research, analysis and benchmarking against local and international best practices.
• Translate strategic objectives and emerging community needs into actionable policy recommendations and initiatives.
• Lead impact assessments and evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Coordinate with internal departments and relevant government entities to ensure policy alignment, consistency and effective implementation.
• Provide strategic advice and evidence-based recommendations to senior leadership on policy matters.
• Monitor legislative, regulatory, social and economic developments that may influence the Ministry's policy direction.
• Establish governance mechanisms, standards and frameworks to ensure policy quality, consistency and compliance.
• Lead stakeholder engagement and consultation processes to gather insights and assess policy implications.
• Manage and develop the Policy team, ensuring effective delivery of departmental objectives and continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, Economics or a related discipline. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Significant experience in policy development, government strategy, regulatory affairs or public sector transformation.
• Proven experience in leading policy development and review initiatives within a government or large institutional environment.
• Strong understanding of government structures, regulatory frameworks and public policy processes.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder management and cross-government collaboration.
• Excellent analytical, research, strategic thinking and report-writing capabilities.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage teams and influence senior stakeholders.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking and Policy Development
• Research and Analytical Skills
• Regulatory and Governance Expertise
• Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
• Leadership and People Management
• Strategic Communication and Influencing
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

Location

Dubai, United Arab Emirates